More than just a legendary competition, an upcoming Tugs event has evolved into a showcase of NIU’s growing Fraternity and Sorority Life.
The upcoming Tugs event, which aims to raise $25,000 for the NIU Foundation to support the creation of the Center for Greek Life, will be held the week of April 7-12 in the heart of Greek Row.
The week-long tug-of-war event hosted by the Interfraternity Council (IFC) serves as a homecoming for Greek alumni, a fundraiser and a symbol of unity for all involved.
“Tugs is the embodiment of NIU Greek Life,” said Gunnar Hartoonian Almas, IFC vice president of Community Relations and tournament organizer. “It’s the biggest event we have all year and something that makes our community unique.”
Scheduled from April 7-12 at 912 Edgebrook Drive in the heart of Greek Row, this year’s Tugs aims to raise $25,000 for the NIU Foundation to support the creation of the Center for Greek Life.
IFC is calling on students, alumni and the community to help reach their fundraising goal by purchasing event tickets or donating through this link. The effort culminates in the Tugs championship finals, scheduled for 3 p.m. on April 12.
Beyond the competition, Tugs 2025 looks to draw crowds with a live DJ, food trucks and the Fatty’s Beer Garden.
In partnership with the City of DeKalb, NIU Alumni Association, NIU Foundation and NIU Greek Alumni Council, organizers are eager to welcome back former Greek life members. Alumni can stop by the NIU Alumni Association tent for a “First Drink on Us” promotion at the Fatty’s Beer Garden. Among numerous sponsors are Fatty’s Pub and Grille, Burritoville, Champion Insurance, Lythberg Law and Always Available Seating.
With five different chapter alumni groups also sponsoring, the event already has garnered strong support from Greek alumni, many of whom have reached out to contribute.
“We’ve had so many alumni asking how they can help,” said Mathias Jaikovski, IFC Vice president of marketing. “This event isn’t just about showcasing our strength in competition, but also proving that we can give back and improve life at NIU.”
Proceeds from this year’s event will directly benefit the Center for Greek Life, an initiative aimed at revitalizing Greek Row, fostering stronger connections between Fraternity and Sorority Life on campus, while continuing to strengthen the relationship with NIU’s proud Greek Alumni Community.
